5-star hotel and possible new theme park part of Niagara Falls revitalization plan

It might be chillier (much chillier) than the desert, but it appears the province is pushing forward with ambitious plans to increase the international appeal of Niagara Falls, moving it closer to becoming something of a “north Las Vegas.” 

Today, the Ontario government launched its new Destination Niagara Strategy, a multi-billion-dollar plan to make one of Canada’s premier tourist hot spots even more of a destination for people at home and abroad. The strategy, which mentions the ongoing conversion of the historic Toronto Power Generating Station into Niagara Falls’ first five-star hotel, also includes the possible creation of a new theme park, the potential redevelopment of the Ontario Power Generating Station, a new observation wheel, and the revitalization of the Niagara Parks Marina. 

The plan also suggests increasing casino options by potentially “expanding the market to multiple world-class casinos, which could attract new hotels, entertainment and top-tier dining options.” 

In a news release, the province said the strategy will create “world-class attractions,” boost local arts and culture and improve the region’s transportation network, with a goal of attracting 25 million annual visitors and doubling the region’s tourism impact by generating an additional $3 billion for Ontario’s GDP every year.

“Niagara is home to the world-famous Niagara Falls, one of the most iconic tourism destinations on earth, along with a host of world-class restaurants, wineries, hotels, cultural events and so much more,” said Premier Doug Ford in a statement. 

“Our Destination Niagara Strategy will unlock the region’s full potential, supporting workers and creating new opportunities for tourists and families from Ontario and around the world to come and experience the best that the region has to offer.”

The strategy also suggests building on the region’s reputation as a wine and culinary destination, as it is home to more than 100 vineyards and is Canada’s largest wine-producing region. The release also mentions investing in arts and culture in the region, particularly the long-standing Shaw Festival.  

Earlier this year, the province announced plans to close and redevelop the Royal George Theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a Shaw Festival location that opened during the Second World War. The revitalization, slated to cost about $35 million, is expected to take about three years to complete.  

The strategy also includes plans to improve and expand transportation options, including expanding the QEW in Niagara, twinning the Garden City Skyway, continuing to increase GO service to the region and leveraging the Niagara District Airport by issuing a request for proposals to improve air access.

As for increasing tourist attractions, the news release mentions the recent opening of Niagara Takes Flight, an immersive experience that opened earlier this year, and says it plans to work with Niagara Parks to “identify private-sector partnerships and expand tourism offerings in the region.” 

The province said it’s launching a Request for Information to explore options for a new theme park, while also exploring the possibility of creating a year-round tram that will run 3.8 kilometres through Queen Victoria Park. If completed, the tram will offer riders a view of the Falls and access to other local attractions. 

As of now, the Niagara Region welcomes about 13 million people a year and generates $3 billion in tourist revenue. 

“Niagara is a global brand that has drawn tourists from around the world for over two centuries. With recent investments that have elevated and modernized that brand, from new attractions to the upcoming redevelopment of Toronto Power Hotel into Niagara Falls’ first five-star accommodation property, we are introducing even more reasons to visit this iconic, bucket-list-worthy destination,” David Adames, CEO, Niagara Parks Commission, said in a statement. 

“The Destination Niagara Strategy outlines a bold vision for Niagara, further establishing its role as a global tourism icon for generations to come.”

Cover photo a rendering of the new five-star hotel’s dining room, courtesy of Niagara Parks